Preparing for the Baby

The birth of a child is one of life’s biggest milestones – not just for the mother, but equally for the father. As men, we often find ourselves standing a little in the background during pregnancy, but the truth is: we play a key role long before the big day arrives. The way you prepare now can make all the difference for a smoother, calmer start into family life.

Why Preparation Matters

The first weeks with a newborn are intense, emotional, and sometimes chaotic. Being prepared brings a sense of calm and security – for your partner and for yourself. Preparation isn’t only about emotional support; it’s also about the practical side of things: from packing the hospital bag to making sure the essentials are ready at home.

Your Role as a Dad

• Daily planning: Take over tasks so your partner can rest.

• Communication: Talk openly about expectations, fears, and wishes around the birth.

• Emotional support: Be present – even if you can’t solve everything, your presence counts.

• Organization: Get the things you need before for the new arrival. Less stress = more quality time.

  
  

The Essentials

To keep you from getting overwhelmed, Whether it’s your first time being a dad or you’ve been through this before, the following checklist will help you tackle those early days with a bit more chill.

Clothing

• 6 cotton bodysuits with snap buttons (wrap bodysuits are practical)

• 6 one-piece rompers or pants with long-sleeve shirts (4-6 sleepers/rompers)

• 2 pairs of socks

• 1 pair of baby booties

• 2 pairs of tights

• 2 cardigans or pullovers for layering (3–5 tops/cardigans depending on season)

• 1 warm jacket for outdoors

• In winter: 1–2 warm overalls, 2 hats, and 2 pairs of gloves/mittens

• In summer: 2 thin cotton hats

Important note: It’s hard to predict exactly how big your newborn will be or how fast it will grow. Baby clothes come in various sizes—typically 50/56 for newborns up to about 1-2 months, 62 for around 2-3 months, and 68 for 3-6 months. Since little ones grow incredibly fast during the first weeks, the smallest size won’t last long. That’s why it’s a good idea to have a few different sizes of the clothing mentioned above, rather than just one.

Diapering

• Disposable or cloth diapers (newborn size, don’t stockpile too much as babies grow quite fast)

• Cotton wool or wet wipes (skin-friendly or washable alternatives)

• Diaper cream (e.g., with zinc)

• Changing pad / changing mat (wipeable and soft)

• Diaper pail (odor-sealed, optional with refill cartridges)

• Changing table / dresser with changing station (with storage space)

• Washcloths & bowl (for cleaning with water)

2–3 muslin cloths (e.g., as underlay, versatile use)

Important note: Diapers come in various sizes, so it’s smart to buy a few packs to start but expect to move up to a larger size fairly quickly. With so many different brands available, it’s a good idea to try out a few to see what works best. Not every baby’s skin reacts well to every diaper, and some brands don’t absorb urine and stool effectively. This can lead to diaper rash, which can cause a lot of discomfort for your little one (and sleepless nights for you dads and your wives).

Bathing & Care

• Baby bathtub or baby bath bucket (baby-friendly, ergonomic)

• Hooded towels (2–3 soft and absorbent hooded towels)

• Washcloths

• Mild baby care products (baby shampoo & wash lotion, pH-neutral & fragrance-free)

• Baby brush / comb (soft bristles)

• Nail care set for Babies/Children (rounded scissors or nail file)

• Thermometer for children (digital, ear, forehead or rectal)

  
  

Feeding

Depending on whether the mother wants to breastfeed and is able to, or not, different equipment will be needed:

Breastfeeding:

• Nursing bras (2–3 pieces, comfortable & supportive)

• Nursing pads (disposable or washable)

• Breast pump (optional, manual or electric)

• Storage containers/bags (for expressed milk)

• Nursing pillow (also useful during pregnancy sleep)

• Nipple cream (e.g., lanolin)

• Nursing cover (optional, for on the go)

  
  

Bottle feeding:

• 6 bottles with lids and nipples (at least 4–6 bottles, size 1 nipple)

• Bottle brush (for thorough cleaning)

• Sterilizer or sterilizing device (or large pot)

• Bottle warmer (optional, practical for on the go)

• Funnel

• 1 pack of baby food (formula, consult pediatrician, avoid large stockpiles)

• Thermos (optional)

  
  

Sleeping

• Baby bed or co-sleeper / baby balcony (crib or co-sleeper for first months)

• Mattress + 2 waterproof mattress protectors (fitting and breathable)

• 2–4 fitted sheets (cotton, washable)

• Sleeping bags (2–3 sizes, no pillow or blanket needed)

• Baby hammock or cradle swing (optional)

• Pacifier (optional)

• Baby monitor (optional, with camera or audio only)

• Night light (for nighttime breastfeeding/diaper changes)

  
  

On the go

• Stroller (with bassinet, adapter for car seat if needed)

• Car seat (approved according to current standards)

• Baby wrap or carrier / other babywearing device (for closeness & hands-free)

• Diaper bag (with insulated compartment, changing mat, etc.)

• Rain and sun protection (for stroller)

• Footmuff or blanket (seasonal)

• Travel crib (optional)

  
  

Playing & Development

• Play gym or mobile (promotes visual & motor skills)

• Rattles, teethers (lightweight & safe)

• Baby blanket or play mat (for floor time)

• Books made of fabric or cardboard (for early sensory stimulation)

Important note: Always make sure that toys are free from harmful substances such as plasticizers (e.g. phthalates) and are clearly labeled as non-toxic. Babies tend to explore the world with their mouths, so anything they play with could end up being chewed or sucked on. Since certain chemicals can pose serious health risks, it's best to avoid them whenever possible.

Safety & Household

• Socket covers (once baby becomes more mobile)

• Door & stair gates (for crawling age)

• Baby first aid kit (including nasal aspirator, fever medicine, etc.)

• Baby medicine cabinet (consult pediatrician)

  
  

Miscellanous

• Pediatrician information (child health booklet, vaccination schedule, etc.)

• Health insurance & registrations (important to arrange before birth)

• Carrier cover (for baby wrap in winter, optional)

• Photo album or milestone cards (for memories)